Chamber adds new insurance program

Written by Dave Gallagher | The Bellingham Herald | September 22, 2010

Here’s a press release from the Bellingham/Whatcom Chamber of Commerce about offering a new insurance program to its members:

The Bellingham/Whatcom Chamber of Commerce & Industry announced today that it has joined Business Health Trust, a statewide network of health insurance and other employee benefit programs. The Trust specifically provides insurance products and services through Chambers of Commerce in select markets in Washington State. Bellingham is the fifth Chamber, along with Seattle, Tacoma, Spokane and the Tri-Cities.

Business Health Trust will be available to Bellingham/Whatcom Chamber of Commerce & Industry member companies that employ between from 2 – 99 people, effective October 15, 2010. Products include the full range of health insurance and employee benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life, long-term disability and employee assistance programs.

“Over 90% of our members have less than 100 employees, and we are excited to provide them with an outstanding way to get competitive employee benefits through Business Health Trust,” said Ken Oplinger, President/CEO of the Chamber. “The cost of providing health insurance and other benefits to employees continues to increase year after year, making it the number one concern of many small business owners. Ensuring members of the Bellingham/Whatcom Chamber of Commerce & Industry have access to large group buying power could be the difference that allows those companies to continue providing employee benefits during these difficult economic times.”

“Helping small businesses succeed is a top priority for chambers of commerce,” said Emmy Jordan, Business Health Trustee and Senior Vice President of Membership and Business Development at the Greater Seattle Chamber of Commerce. “The Business Health Trust provides group buying power. This translates into affordable, high quality benefits for small businesses.”

For more information about Business Health Trust and enrollment, please contact the Bellingham/Whatcom Chamber of Commerce & Industry’s special BHT Hotline at 360/734-1716.